LaLa knows she is a little dog in a big world. New things can often be too much for her to handle gracefully. She was found wandering lost by a child, who brought her home but the parents of the household were unable to provide the care that the young dog needed. So, LaLa was given into our care. She was frightened here at first, tucking her already small body into a donut shape and looking away when someone approached her. As she settled in and grew to know us she would greet with a sweet grin and soft eyes, begging to spend some quiet time in a lap.

She is attentive but timid, still searching for just where her place might be. Even other dogs can be scary to her, though another small and respectful dog might be just what she needs to help build her confidence. She has been kenneling with well-matched, mellow, little dog friends and seems much less unsure with a fellow to boost her spirits. She would need to meet any resident dogs though before going home to make sure there was a good match.

Right now the Adoption Kennels are very full, with all sorts of dogs: small, medium and large -- fluffy, sleek and scruffy -- young, older and in-between. Little Lala's hopeful face is only one among many, but she certainly is someone special. Come on down to the shelter and let us help you find a new friend.

If you are looking for a lost pet or are interested in adopting, becoming a volunteer or fostering, visit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter or go online to www.scanimalshelter.org.

The Santa Cruz shelter, 2200 Seventh Ave., is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and closed 1-2 p.m. for lunch. The Watsonville shelter, 580 Airport Blvd., is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed noon to 1 p.m. for lunch. Call 454-7303, ext. 0, for more information.